"yes" answers your current question, but I would imagine you'd like something more specific than that. You should edit your question so that it is more specific and so that it can be answered objectively. As it's phrased now, it's going to get closed.
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joelmdevDec 6 '11 at 21:31

6 Answers
6

Since I switched to my 29-er in september, I can keep up with the fastest bikers in my "team". Before that I just could not. It could be due to the new material, but I think there's a speed difference of about 2 km/h.

I bike on the flat tracks of nothern Belgium and the south of the Netherlands. So no climbing or descending.

The 29-er is definitly faster on (loose) sand, and mud. And a lot more comfortable on tree-roots and the "Belgian Blocks".

For really, really small turns, I notice the wheelbase is larger, but otherwise I do not notice any difference in handling.

Well, I think the wikipedia page currently offers a pretty concise view of the differences between a 26" and a 29" wheel without being overly biased.

One item from that list, though I would also list in advantages (not just disadvantages): "More force needed to change steering angle due to greater mass and longer contact patch". This can also be translated the other way: more force is needed by obstacles, trail conditions, etc. to change the steering angle. 29er's are often less "flickable" or "agile" but depending on your type of riding/needs this can be advantage!

Does changing the wheel size make a difference? Yes. Does it make a difference that means that it is better/worse? Not really. To further confuse things, there are two other bikes that mix things up: the 96er (front wheel is a 29er, back is a 26er) and the 650b (a size in between the two).

In the end, you'll learn to ride with the advantages/disadvantages of your wheel choice. I personally also feel the terrain you ride the most also dictates what works the "best". And your own opinion as well.